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Redonda

Submitted by mhabich on

Redonda, the smallest of Antigua and Barbuda’s three islands, is a rugged, uninhabited gem in the Caribbean Sea. Rising dramatically from the water, this volcanic remnant is a striking sight, with sheer cliffs and a windswept plateau at its peak. Though landing here is nearly impossible, Redonda’s history is fascinating—it was once a hub for guano mining, with workers extracting phosphate-rich deposits from the island’s seabird colonies.

Christopher Columbus named it "Santa María la Redonda" in 1493, inspired by its rounded appearance from afar. Today, it remains untouched by human habitation, a haven for seabirds and a testament to nature’s raw beauty. If you ever sail past, take a moment to admire this isolated wonder—it's a far-flung corner of Antigua and Barbuda that holds a unique place in Caribbean history.